Large pro-Palestinian protests filled downtown Montreal on Tuesday to commemorate two years of conflict in Gaza. Numerous student associations representing over 46,000 students voted to strike in solidarity with Palestinians and the victims of violence in Gaza at the hands of Israeli forces. Demonstrators gathered near Mackay Street and de Maisonneuve Boulevard, many wearing keffiyehs, while police presence was notable.
Concordia University closed its downtown campus to prevent potential disruptions from protests, offering remote teaching as an alternative. University President Graham Carr stated the decision aimed to safeguard the community, noting that such preventive measures had not been necessary before.
The protests, part of an ongoing series, included calls for divestment from Israel and denounced alleged genocide. Participants waved Palestinian flags, set off smoke bombs, and burned an Israeli flag. The demonstrations also demanded accountability from schools regarding investments and public stances on the issue.
Rabbi Josh Berkowitz of Concordia’s Chabad Student Group expressed concerns over disruptions affecting students preparing for exams and the overall safety of Jewish students on campus. He criticized the university for not enforcing rules to maintain a conducive learning environment. Berkowitz highlighted the distress caused by some celebratory aspects of previous anniversary gatherings.
The protests in Montreal reflect ongoing tensions and calls for action regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Students and activists continue to advocate for change and accountability amidst escalating debates and demonstrations.